Music at Church Funerals
Church funerals celebrate a life in many ways, including an eulogy, readings, poetry, and of course, music. A typical church funeral service includes the following opportunities for personal choices of music that has special meaning for the family. However, there are no 'rules' on the types of music you can choose, so feel free to discuss your choices with us and with your minister. Our telephone number is 01252 511 762.
Prelude
Performed before the service, a prelude provides a gentle welcome in music for family and friends.
Entrance Song
This can either be a song to gather attention, or to accompany the funeral procession as it enters the church or chapel.
Psalm
A psalm is often sung after a reading, allowing a moment for reflection. One of the most popular psalms is "The Lord is My Shepherd" (Psalm 23).
Hymns
One or two hymns may be sung, giving family and friends a chance to sing too. Or, you may prefer one hymn and a solo, such as a favourite song. See our guide to choosing funeral hymns for helpful advice (coming soon).
Song of Farewell
In some services, a 'final commendation' is performed, often accompanied by an appropriate song.
Recessional
As the funeral procession departs, you may like a positive, uplifting song to accompany this.
Church Funeral Music Timings
Funeral services (as opposed to memorial services) are often limited in duration, and so it is rarely possible to include all of the music above, plus readings, etc. Most services include entrance and exit music, one or two hymns and a solo item.
Hymns for Funerals
We are always happy to lead hymns during a service.
Prelude
Performed before the service, a prelude provides a gentle welcome in music for family and friends.
Entrance Song
This can either be a song to gather attention, or to accompany the funeral procession as it enters the church or chapel.
Psalm
A psalm is often sung after a reading, allowing a moment for reflection. One of the most popular psalms is "The Lord is My Shepherd" (Psalm 23).
Hymns
One or two hymns may be sung, giving family and friends a chance to sing too. Or, you may prefer one hymn and a solo, such as a favourite song. See our guide to choosing funeral hymns for helpful advice (coming soon).
Song of Farewell
In some services, a 'final commendation' is performed, often accompanied by an appropriate song.
Recessional
As the funeral procession departs, you may like a positive, uplifting song to accompany this.
Church Funeral Music Timings
Funeral services (as opposed to memorial services) are often limited in duration, and so it is rarely possible to include all of the music above, plus readings, etc. Most services include entrance and exit music, one or two hymns and a solo item.
Hymns for Funerals
We are always happy to lead hymns during a service.
"Just to say a huge thank you to you for all your help, assistance and participation in the funeral today. All went very well indeed."
Iain Steel, Richard Steel & Partners Ltd, Winchester
on a traveller's funeral in Hampshire
Iain Steel, Richard Steel & Partners Ltd, Winchester
on a traveller's funeral in Hampshire
